"If I could have half an hour more, Mr. Linden--I want to show the young lady something about the milk cellar."
"The young lady? ah--yes--"
"Yes, the young lady who came to visit Miss Rosa yesterday. She offered her services, sir, when she heard that Mrs. Linden had gone away. I don't know how I can manage without her either, Dora is so stupid and she has so much to do besides."
Before he could reply, the door opened softly and behind Aunt Rosa's wonderful figure appeared a dark girl with red cheeks and shining eyes, who when she perceived him made a rather awkward curtsy, and was at once introduced as Addie Strom.
Frank bowed to the ladies, stammered out a few civil words, and asked to be excused for leaving them as he had letters to write.
"I am so sorry," said Aunt. Rosa, "that Mrs. Linden is not at home."
He nodded impatiently.
"She will soon be back," he replied as he went out.
"If Addie can help about the house a little--" sounded the shrill tones of the old lady behind him.
"Don't give yourself any trouble," was his reply.